Kim Kallstrom could be staying in the capital next season, with his loan spell coming to an end Arsenal could make his deal permanent.

Kallstrom was probably the most surprising transfer Wenger made this season, out of very few, however many speculated about his arrival as fans were crying out for a back up striker to play with Olivier Giroud – but instead they got the Sweden international. His entrance was even more frustrating when fans discovered he had signed with a back complaint that kept him off the team sheet for over 2 months whilst other midfielders in Arsenals ranks were getting sidelined such as Mesut Ozil, Aaron Ramsey and Jack Wilshere.

Kallstrom finally made his debut off the bench in the 2 all draw at home to Swansea in March, where an unfortunate own goal from Mathieu Flamini cost them the 3 points. He made a lively start and looked impressive keeping up with the Gunner’s fluent and fast paced style of play, but the midfielder was expected to show poor standards as he has played over 100 games for Sweden and 200 for Lyon in France’s top division, so fans should not have jumped to conclusions so quickly with the talented left footer. One major contribution he made was to score a penalty in the FA cup semi final against Wigan, a moment when many Arsenal followers changed their opinion of the Swede; stepping up to take responsibility for a club he is only on loan at shows big signs of commitment.

Reports suggest that Arsene Wenger could turn the loan deal of Kallstrom into a permanent one, which would see him leave his current club CSKA Moscow to join the North London club. If so, there would only be benefits from his abilities such as his set piece quality, his tackling, reading of the play, superb left foot and leadership. Also, Arsenal’s younger midfielders like Jack Wilshere and Ramsey could only benefit from his experience at the highest levels of the game.

Gunners boss Arsene Wenger has apparently shed some light on the Swedish international’s performance this season of which Kallstrom was happy to share.

‘’They were really happy with my work."

‘’They were really happy with my performance and what I was there to do so it felt good’’

The midfielder himself however does not know what his future holds and is open to anything whether playing out his contract in Russia, or remaining in London, ‘’ We'll see, it was a very good experience but we’ll have to see what happens.

‘’I have a year remaining on my contract in Russia so it is what it is now until something else happens.

‘’Spartak’s a very nice club and i enjoyed working there so it will be a continuation, which is a very good option too’’

With Arsenal’s transfer saga yet to kick off, could Kallstrom be the spark that kick starts a summer of top spending from the Reds and put smiles on Arsenal fans faces heading into an exciting new season.